President Donald Trump delivered a commencement address at West Point on May 24, 2025, that quickly shifted from honoring the graduating class to promoting his political agenda. Wearing his signature “Make America Great Again” hat, Trump lauded the cadets’ achievements, including the design of a hypersonic rocket, and invited them to join him on stage, emphasizing physical strength and endurance.
The president then transitioned into a political rally, claiming credit for rebuilding the U.S. military during his first term and announcing a grand parade to celebrate the Army’s 250th anniversary, coinciding with his birthday. He also highlighted his administration’s efforts to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs within the armed forces, including banning critical race theory and transgender policies in training .
Trump’s speech was met with mixed reactions. While some applauded his focus on military strength and national pride, others criticized the politicization of a traditionally nonpartisan institution. The address underscored the ongoing blending of military affairs with political branding, a hallmark of Trump’s leadership style
As the nation approaches significant anniversaries and elections, Trump’s West Point speech serves as a reminder of the deepening intersection between military institutions and political ideology in contemporary America.
